Have you ever felt sudden numbness on one side of your body? Or suddenly had difficulty speaking and your face looked asymmetrical? Be careful, it could be a warning signal of stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency that can cause permanent disability. We understand how important fast and accurate information is to prevent the bad effects of stroke.
What is Stroke? Why is it Important for Us to Know?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Without adequate blood supply, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cell damage or death within minutes. The impact? Disruption of bodily functions controlled by the damaged area of the brain, from speech, movement, vision, to memory.
Given its serious impact, stroke awareness is crucial. The sooner a stroke is recognized and treated, the greater the chance of minimizing brain damage and speeding recovery.
After Stroke Diagnosis: What Are the Restrictions?
Once someone is diagnosed with a stroke, the recovery process requires a strong commitment and healthy lifestyle changes. These restrictions are not just prohibitions, but rather an integral part of efforts to prevent recurrent strokes and optimize recovery.
- Food Taboos:
- Limit Salt (Sodium): Excess salt intake can increase blood pressure, a major risk factor for stroke. Avoid processed foods, fast foods, and reduce the amount of salt used in cooking.
- Avoid Saturated and Trans Fats: Found in fatty red meat, chicken skin, high-fat dairy products, fried foods, and processed foods. These fats contribute to plaque buildup in blood vessels (atherosclerosis) which can lead to ischemic stroke.
- Cut Back on Sugar and Refined Carbs: Excessive consumption can lead to diabetes and obesity, both of which are risk factors for stroke. Limit sugary drinks, pastries, white bread, and white rice.
- Avoid Excessive Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure and the risk of stroke.
- Lifestyle Taboos:
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and makes blood clot more easily, drastically increasing the risk of stroke. Quitting smoking is the most important step.
- Avoid Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Consult your doctor or physical therapist to start a safe and appropriate exercise program.
- Manage Stress: Uncontrolled stress can affect blood pressure. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or a hobby.
- Avoid Drug Use: Some types of drugs can trigger strokes directly.
- Compliance with Medication:
- Don't Ignore Medications: Stroke patients are often prescribed medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, or to thin the blood. It is important to take medications as directed by your doctor regularly and not to stop without consulting.
- Routine Medical Check-ups: Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor your condition, adjust your medication dosage, and detect complications early.
Your Real Action: Save Yourself and Those Closest to You!
Understanding stroke and its taboos is the first step. The next step is to act!
- Educate Yourself and Your Environment: Spread information about stroke symptoms and the importance of prompt treatment.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Adopt a healthy diet, be active, manage stress, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol. This is the best investment for your blood vessel health.
- Routine Health Checks: Have regular health checks to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol.
- Take Quick Action When Symptoms Appear: If you or someone around you is experiencing stroke symptoms, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Don't wait! Every minute counts in saving brain cells.
At EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital, we have a team of neurologists, nurses, and medical support facilities ready to provide the best treatment for stroke cases. We are committed to assisting you in prevention, acute treatment, and post-stroke rehabilitation.
Remember: Stroke is preventable and its impact can be minimized with knowledge and quick action. Let's work together to create a healthier, stroke-free society!
Article written by dr. Dhira Atman, Sp.BS, FINPS, FINSS, S.Kom (Neurosurgery Specialist Doctor at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).